HMX Caramel Pudding vs. Outemu Gold
An in-depth look at the HMX Caramel Pudding and the Outemu Gold switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When exploring the realm of mechanical keyboard switches, two noteworthy options stand out: the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch and the Outemu Gold clicky switch. The Caramel Pudding is cherished for its exquisitely smooth typing experience and a resonant, clacky sound that adds personality to your keystrokes, making it an excellent choice for those who prefer a quieter yet satisfying feel while typing or gaming. In contrast, the Outemu Gold offers a more tactile experience with its distinctive clicky feedback, appealing to users who relish the audible and physical confirmation of each keystroke. While the Caramel Pudding is perfect for those who prioritize smoothness and reduced noise, the Outemu Gold caters to click enthusiasts who enjoy a more pronounced and engaging typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
52g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Caramel Pudding and the Outemu Gold, a significant difference lies in their top housing compositions. The Caramel Pudding utilizes nylon for its top housing, a material known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, which effectively dampens sound and creates a rounded auditory experience. In contrast, the Outemu Gold features a polycarbonate top housing. Polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic that contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, enhancing clarity and resonance. Aesthetically, the translucence of polycarbonate facilitates RGB lighting, creating a visually striking effect that the nylon housing cannot achieve, which is particularly advantageous for users who prioritize illuminated keyboards.
In terms of bottom housing, both the Caramel Pudding and Outemu Gold employ nylon, allowing them to share similar malleable acoustic properties. This means when users press the keys, they will experience a consistent tactile response coupled with a deeper sound profile from the nylon bottom housing. Both models benefit from the sound-absorbing qualities of nylon, which contribute to a more muted and rounded auditory feel at the bottom-out. Thus, although the top housing materials diverge in their sound characteristics, they align on the bottom housing, resulting in a cohesive experience during key presses.
When considering the overall performance of these switches, it’s essential to note how the different top and bottom housing materials interact. The nylon bottom housing provides a versatile foundation that impacts the switch's sound profile and feel when bottomed out. Meanwhile, the contrasting top materials mean that the auditory experience will be a blend of the deeper, fuller tone of nylon at the bottom and the crisper, more resonant sound of polycarbonate at the top for the Outemu Gold. Conversely, the Caramel Pudding will maintain the deeper characteristic throughout due to consistent nylon usage. Therefore, while both switches offer distinct auditory experiences shaped by different top housing materials, the shared nylon bottom ensures comparable tactile feedback and sound absorption.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch to the Outemu Gold clicky switch, both switches feature the same actuation force of 45 grams, making them equally easy to press down to register a keystroke. However, their bottom out forces differ, with the Caramel Pudding requiring 52 grams to bottom out and the Outemu Gold requiring a heftier 60 grams. This indicates that while both switches offer a lightweight actuation, the Caramel Pudding is notably lighter overall, resulting in a more comfortable typing experience for extended periods, making it preferable for those who value less strain during long sessions. In contrast, the Outemu Gold, with its heavier bottom out force, offers a more substantial feel for users who favor a firmer key press. Ultimately, those looking for a softer touch should lean towards the Caramel Pudding, while those desiring a stronger push might find the Outemu Gold more satisfying.
Travel distance
The HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch and the Outemu Gold clicky switch exhibit different travel distances, with the Caramel Pudding measuring 3.6 mm and the Outemu Gold at 4.0 mm. This makes the Caramel Pudding the shorter option, benefiting users who favor quicker response times, particularly in gaming scenarios. Conversely, the Outemu Gold's longer travel distance may appeal to those seeking a more pronounced tactile experience, as it provides a deeper feel when pressing down on the key. While both switches offer distinct advantages based on travel preference, the Caramel Pudding is ideal for those who prioritize speed, whereas the Gold caters to individuals who enjoy a more robust actuation.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Caramel Pudding has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Caramel Pudding for $2.99.
The Outemu Gold comes in at $3.10 per 10 switches.
Here at Milktooth, we offer the best prices on switches (on average, 27% lower the competition). In addition, we offer free shipping on orders over $49.00. We also offer free returns and exchanges, so you can shop with guaranteed satisfaction.
That said, while price is an important piece of the puzzle, our opinion is that you should ultimately pick the option that most suits your unique preferences since you’ll be using these switches for years to come. In other words, finding something perfect for you is, in our view, the most important criteria.
Typing experience
In terms of sound, the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch is best known for its resonant, clacky sound signature, which can provide a satisfying auditory feedback during typing. This can create an enjoyable atmosphere, especially for those who appreciate a more pronounced acoustic experience with their keyboard. On the other hand, the Outemu Gold clicky switch does not have a specific sound profile provided in the information; however, clicky switches are typically expected to produce a distinctive and sharp click sound with each key press, adding an additional layer of audio feedback that many typists find satisfying.
When it comes to feel, the Caramel Pudding is celebrated for its exquisitely smooth typing experience, allowing for effortless key presses that minimize finger fatigue during prolonged use. This smoothness can be particularly appealing for users who prioritize a gentle and fluid typing sensation. In contrast, the feel of the Outemu Gold switch is not defined, but clicky switches are generally known for providing a tactile bump, resulting in a more pronounced and engaging typing experience that some users may find more enjoyable for typing or gaming.
In summary, the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch offers a clacky sound profile and a remarkably smooth typing feel, making it appealing for those who enjoy auditory feedback and seamless key action. The Outemu Gold clicky switch, while lacking a detailed description in sound and feel, typically features a distinctive click sound and tactile feedback that can enhance the typing experience for those who prefer clicky switches. Therefore, while the Caramel Pudding may cater to users looking for smoothness and acoustic pleasure, the generally engaging characteristic of clicky switches like the Gold could also be a viable choice depending on personal preference.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the HMX Caramel Pudding linear switch and the Outemu Gold clicky switch ultimately boils down to your personal typing preferences and what you seek in your mechanical keyboard experience. If you prefer a smoother, quieter typing experience with a clacky sound signature, the Caramel Pudding switch would be ideal for you. Its medium-light actuation force of 52 grams makes it suitable for extended typing sessions, allowing for less finger fatigue while providing an enjoyable tactile sensation. On the other hand, if you enjoy a more pronounced feedback with each keystroke, coupled with a slightly firmer actuation force of 60 grams, the Gold clicky switch could be your go-to option. This switch may not have a well-defined sound profile, but if you appreciate a keyboard that audibly confirms your key presses, this could add to your typing satisfaction. In summary, your choice should reflect whether you prioritize smoothness and lower resistance with the Caramel Pudding or a more tactile and assertive typing experience with the Outemu Gold.
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